Real Mary King's Close
2 Warriston’s Close, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH1 1PG
This well-preserved 17th-century street now lies hidden beneath the Edinburgh City Chambers on the Royal Mile. It takes its name from Mary King, a merchant and mother who lived on the close (alleyway) and was considered a woman of high social standing with rare voting rights. Her former street is a unique spot, as it’s the only Edinburgh close that’s now underground. It’s also shrouded in mystery, with many reports of paranormal activity over the years.
The Basics
Guides lead you beneath the Royal Mile to explore the labyrinthine Close while recounting the various myths and legends that surround the subterranean streets. These guided 1-hour tours take place throughout the day—pre-purchasing your ticket means you’ll avoid waiting in line and guarantee your preferred time slot. Real Mary King’s Close also features on several ghost tours, which typically occur after dark and reveal Edinburgh’s history of hauntings.
Things to Know Before You Go
Real Mary King’s Close is a must-visit for those interested in Edinburgh history.
There are many steps on the tour, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
Much of the tour takes place in dimly-lit tight spaces and is not recommended for those with claustrophobia.
There is a souvenir shop on-site.
Due to its tight spaces and protected status, Real Mary King’s Close is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Located on the Royal Mile—undoubtedly Edinburgh’s most famous street—Real Mary’s Close is a 5-minute walk from Waverley Railway Station and close to many major hotels. The nearest bus stop is Market Street, which is served by route number 6.
When to Get There
Real Mary’s Close is open seven days a week, closing only on Christmas Day (December 25). Tour times vary throughout the year and are extended during the summer, but generally run from morning through late evening. The site is at its most atmospheric after dark.
Coffee House
It’s worth sticking around after your tour for a meal or snack in Mary King’s Coffee House, which boasts a history all of its own. Between the 18th and 19th centuries, the Royal Exchange Coffee House was where key figures associated with the Scottish Enlightenment would meet to debate the issues of the day. Today, the coffee house is located in the Burgh Courtroom and serves specialities such as soups, sandwiches, and cakes.
Ways to explore
Operating as a slick visitor attraction on the Royal Mile, the Real Mary King’s Close is downright popular. To enter, you’ll need to book a tour; these take place frequently throughout the day and night, and are led by costumed character guides who bring the close’s history to life. While you can pay at the door, prebooking is recommended to skip waiting in line and guarantee your preferred time.
You can also visit Real Mary King’s Close on an Edinburgh ghost tour. These spooky tours typically take place after dark, giving the lowdown on Edinburgh’s myths, legends, and historical hauntings.
Accessibility
The historic site is steep, narrow, and full of steps, so it’s not wheelchair accessible. Due to its enclosed nature, it could also be unsuitable for those with vertigo and claustrophobia.
Age limits
Visitors should be at least 5 years old. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Certain tours have a minimum age requirement of 16 years due to sensitive content
What to pack
Non-American Express credit or debit card, as the site is cashless and doesn’t accept American Express
What to wear
Flat shoes with a good grip
Not allowed
Dogs, food and drink, taking photos or videos
Amenities
Coffee kiosk, multilingual audio guides via a smartphone app, restrooms near the Royal Mile entrance
Address
The Real Mary King’s Close is on the Royal Mile, adjacent to the Mercat Cross and St. Giles’ Cathedral.
Driving
Edinburgh’s city center forms part of an LEZ (low emission zone), so some higher-emission vehicles may be forbidden. Check before you enter the area to avoid a fine. If you still want to drive, aim to arrive early to bag nearby on-street parking, or leave your vehicle at the large NCP car park on Castle Terrace or the smaller parking garage on Blackfriars Street.
Public transportation
Many central Edinburgh bus services pass nearby. Look for routes that stop at the North Bridge stop. From Edinburgh’s Waverley Station, the Real Mary King’s Close is within a 10-minute walk.
Best times to visit
For a spooky experience, evening tours are the most atmospheric. If your main concern is crowd avoidance, opt for a quieter morning tour.
Best days to visit
Weekends are busier, so visit the attraction between Monday and Thursday, if you can.
Best months to visit
Tours of the Real Mary King’s Close are underground, so the weather isn’t an important factor. October is a great month to visit to catch one of the attraction’s special Halloween tours.
Special events
Extra-spooky tours take place in the fall around Halloween. Edinburgh’s famous Fringe festival takes place in August, and while Real Mary King’s Close isn’t directly involved, several of its storytelling staff take part in the event, performing comedy sketches and musical shows.
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